Natural highs with a cherry on top

A local's guide to Hilltops, located in NSW's Southern Tablelands.

Hilltops, encompassing the towns of Boorowa, Harden, Young and the growing village of Jugiong, is the ultimate playground and I can think of no better place to enjoy all the natural pleasures of life than this beautiful, easily accessible region.

Hilltops is located in the Southern Tablelands just two hours from Canberra and four from Sydney.

I am proud of the distinct diversity of Hilltops and its towns and villages. For instance, Young is well known as the Cherry Capital of Australia and was the first location in the Southern Hemisphere to connect electricity to streets and homes.

Harden-Murrumburrah's military history with the formation of the First Australian Horse brigade and celebration of Australia's most famous war horse, Bill the Bastard, references our amazing heritage. You can visit the Light Horse Memorial on Albury Street, Harden.

Boorowa is best known for the rare and beautiful Superb parrot, and fine merino wool.

Come springtime, everyone takes selfies among the breathtaking landscapes of canola paddocks and orchard blossoms. Come November/December, people of all ages love to pick their own cherries in local orchards and taste the sweetest of the fruits. Delicious! And year-round you can taste Hilltops cool-climate wines and other local gourmet treats. At Young, visit Poppa's Fudge and the Jam Factory's Great Wall of Cherries.

Attend our events - the Boorowa Irish Woolfest (October long weekend) featuring the running of the sheep; the Harden Kite Festival (on October 7 this year); the National Cherry Festival (first weekend of December); and the Off the Beaten Track Art and Cultural Trail (March 8-22).

Take a scenic drive through our towns and villages, or arrange a pampering day in Jugiong at Parlour J, a self-described destination of indulgence and tranquility.

Whether you want to build memories in high-end luxury getaways or are looking for accommodation that is pared back, quirky, or simply practical, Hilltops has a smorgasbord of offerings - many of them historic - that celebrate the country environment.

Check out the Sir George at Jugiong, the Old Brick Pub in the heart of Young, Clifton House, also at Young, the Ned Ryan motel at Boorowa, and Murrumburrah Homestead at Harden.

Picking up some Hilltops regional wines and produce. visithilltopsregion.com.au